Obesity is the big issue this week, with National Obesity Awareness Week encouraging the nation to make a new year's resolution to improve our health. We take a brief look at how climbing and walking can help tackle obesity. And don't miss adventurer Will Gadd's inspirational ode to action and movement on BMC TV.

National Obesity Awareness Week (12-18 January 2015), led by the National Obesity Forum, is all about promoting how we as a country can eat healthier, be more active, improve our overall health, and get support if we need it.

Obesity is a growing problem but...

It’s been predicted that as many as half of us could be obese by 2050. But it is possible to turn obesity around. And that’s the point of National Obesity Awareness Week: to promote the ways in which government, business and each of us can improve our health, and to provide the information and resources that will allow meaningful and long-term change.

Make your health resolution

Following its launch in 2014, this year's National Obesity Awareness Week, is asking the nation to join together in making a national New Year’s resolution to improve our health – and what government and business can do to facilitate all of us being healthier and more active.

Health benefits of walking and climbing

The health and well being benefits of the great outdoors (and climbing indoors) are numerous.  Walking is one of the easiest and cheapest ways of exercising, and an effective way of managing weight. Regular climbing can help keep you in shape –improving stamina and endurance as well as muscle strength. In addition, all the reaching and stretching for holds improves flexibility and agility. Getting out and about in the outdoors, walking to reach the crag you wish to climb on, is also good aerobic exercise. 

A recent discussion in parliament saw MPs involved with the BMC praise the outdoors as “the greatest free gym that we have” and call for more support for outdoor recreation. 

FIND OUT MORE

Read more about the health benefits of climbing and walking

Get involved with National Obesity Awareness Week 

Make your own health New Year’s Resolution

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